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Virginia man sentenced for sharing disturbing videos of newborn sex abuse

Crystal Graham
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A Virginia Beach man was sentenced last week to seven years in prison for his role in sharing videos depicting the sexual abuse of a newborn baby.

Dustin Roy Harrell, 39, was responsible for distributing disturbing videos with horrific images of child sexual abuse.

According to court documents, on Oct. 12, 2023, Harrell distributed child sexual abuse material, known as CSAM, in a group on an end-to-end encryption messaging app that keeps communications private.

Harrell shared a link to a Mega.nz account within the private channel that allowed users to download the video.

Law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices, including three cellphones, from Harrell.

Forensic examinations of the phones revealed 267 images, 32 computer-generated images and five videos of CSAM.

One device contained conversations in which Harrell discussed topics of child pornography and incest. Harrell engaged in online groups named “Cute Teens 16-19,” “Uncensored Teens,” Family Maza Incst” and more.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Heck prosecuted the case.

Harrell is no stranger to the court system. A search of online court records shows Harrell faced multiple DWI charges and probation violations in Virginia Beach General District Court dating back to 2014. His LinkedIn profile showed he was employed at Walmart.

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Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is a reporter and ad manager for Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of "Virginia Tonight," a nightly TV news show, both broadcast on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television. You can reach her at [email protected]